AZA News Releases

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Statement of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums on H1N1 Influenza

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is an independent accrediting organization with mandatory standards that protect the health of the visiting public and the animals in accredited zoos and aquariums. This includes the current situation involving H1N1 influenza.

AZA's 225 member facilities located in the United States must meet both United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) requirements and additional requirements in AZA's Accreditation process.

Accreditation Standards Protect the Public and Animals

AZA Accreditation Standards protect the public with required training and procedures for disease prevention. AZA Accreditation Standards for animal health include requirements for quarantine and veterinary procedures that ensure the health of zoo animals, and practices that ensure a healthy environment for staff and visitors.

Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats.